The Las Vegas Raiders are currently directing their attention towards the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft as they seek promising young talent to establish a foundation under the leadership of the new Antonio Pierce-Tom Telesco regime. The team is in the process of assembling a coaching staff and is preparing to evaluate numerous draft prospects to identify those who align with the cultural values they aim to foster. With the conclusion of the Shrine Bowl and the Senior Bowl entering its final stages, the draft journey is gaining momentum. Prospects will soon engage in the NFL Scouting Combine and have opportunities to meet with coaches, enabling the Raiders to assess which players could be suitable additions to their team.
One potential prospect for the Raiders is Auburn cornerback D.J. James. Having spent the initial three seasons of his five-year career at Oregon before concluding it with the Tigers, James earned Second-Team All-SEC honors in 2022. His college performance includes 147 total tackles, five tackles for loss, 24 passes defended, and five interceptions over 49 career games. Despite his slender build at 170 pounds and a height of 5-foot-11, James’s on-field presence troubles wide receivers due to his lengthy arms disrupting opponents at the line of scrimmage and his long legs facilitating effective coverage. Regarded as one of the draft’s underrated cornerback prospects, James stands out for his exceptional route recognition, high IQ, and swift reaction to close in on receivers.
According to Pro Football Focus, James faced 52 targets, allowing 32 receptions for 385 yards and three touchdowns. Leading the SEC in forced incompletions with 15, his slight physique may pose challenges in the run game, making him vulnerable against larger receivers. To thrive in the NFL, he may need to add weight and muscle, potentially limiting him to a slot cornerback role if unsuccessful. James is anticipated to be a second-round pick, and the Raiders might consider leveraging his athleticism and football intelligence to bolster their secondary.
Looking ahead, the NFL Scouting Combine is scheduled to take place from February 27 to March 4, 2024, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Ind. The NFL Draft is set for April 25-27, 2024, in Detroit, Mich., where the Las Vegas Raiders currently hold the No. 13 overall pick.
